How does the transparency of the gr07 compare to the similarly priced dual balanced armatures like dba-02 mkii or rockit sounds re-50? I'm considering a replacement just in case my dba-02 (original) breaks down from severe channel imbalance (it's already showing signs of this problem)

Different strengths and weaknesses. Personally I think the DBA-02 is more transparent than the GR07 and even the R-50 but the gap is small. You're better off considering if you'll like the extra bass of the GR07.

Pretty much, yes. The SHE3580 is a great pick-up-and-go IEM. I don’t think it sounds quite as good as the MH1C or Quadbeat but it’s close, cheaper, more readily available, and very comfortable. I was hoping to pick up a 3590 to verify that they are identical before posting the 3580 review but haven’t gotten around to it yet.

Do Guinness records require a second trial for verification?

HiFiMan RE-400, MEElec A161P, Sony MH1C, VSonic VC02, HiSound Crystal. Also the Philips Fidelio S1 (not yet added to this thread). Other sets such as the Etymotic HF5 and FXT90 dip below $100 on occasion on ebay/amazon. The shortened buyer's guide only has sets that are currently available.

That's an extremely useful site you got there joker.I recommend anyone who reads joker's thread to have a look at his buyer guide and interactive headphone table.

Hi Joker, I'll be picking up a pair of Philips S2 but would like your thoughts before I do that.

Currently, I'm rotating between the SE535, FXT90 and CKN70 for my daily commute and my work place. From reviews I've read, the S2 is leaning towards neutral with a slight boost in bass.

The question is whether the boost is in the sub bass or mid bass. Also, I'm looking forward to a different take on sound signature and would like to know if it will be different enough in comparison to the iems I'm using now.

Hi Joker, I'll be picking up a pair of Philips S2 but would like your thoughts before I do that.

Currently, I'm rotating between the SE535, FXT90 and CKN70 for my daily commute and my work place. From reviews I've read, the S2 is leaning towards neutral with a slight boost in bass.

The question is whether the boost is in the sub bass or mid bass. Also, I'm looking forward to a different take on sound signature and would like to know if it will be different enough in comparison to the iems I'm using now.

Thanks in advance and my regards to you.

Well I haven't heard the CKN70 but the S2 is different from the SE535 and especially the FXT90. I guess it falls between those two. It doesn't have as much mid-bass as the FXT90 and the treble is smoother, so the overall sound is not v-shaped as with the FXTs. At the same time, there's a more bass than with the SE535 (with a proper seal, of course) and the treble is more prominent and energetic.

Quote:

Originally Posted by FrequencyBlue

well it's the left earpiece that causes discomfort/unfit, but yeah it somewhat affects channel balance

Interesting, thanks.

Quote:

Originally Posted by lukEM22

Can someone link me to those $30 Sony MH1s, I think I have found them but they are listed as new other. I just want to make sure I get the right ones.

Now I have a better idea what to expect. Maybe one last question if you don't mind. Being close to neutral, does it sound cold and causes fatigue for prolong listening.

No, I don't find it fatiguing but one thing I noticed was that both of the Fidelios are very sensitive to fit/seal. I was actually slightly disappointed with them (and yes, did find them a little harsh) until I found better tips. Just for reference, I do find the GR07 (and GR06 and GR02BE) and certain TWFK-based sets (e.g. Rock-It R-50 and UE 700) slightly fatiguing over long periods.